Japanese Pistol Shrimp

The Japanese Pistol Shrimp (Alpheus bisincisus) is a semi-aggressive species that is reef-safe with caution, admired for its striking red-and-white coloration, symbiotic behavior with gobies, and its unique snapping claw that creates a loud “pistol” sound.

Males typically have a noticeably larger snapping claw used for defense and communication, while females/juveniles have smaller, less developed claws and are more reserved in behavior.

They reach about 2–3 inches in adulthood and should be housed in aquariums of at least 10–20 gallons (larger tanks recommended if paired with a goby). Provide a fine sandbed for burrowing, ample live rock for stability and hiding spots, and a secure lid since pistol shrimp may dig extensively and occasionally escape through openings.

Stable water parameters are required (salinity ~1.020–1.025, temp ~72–79°F, pH ~8.1–8.4).

Diet should consist of frozen mysis shrimp, brine shrimp, copepods, and sinking pellets, as they are opportunistic scavengers.

With proper care, this shrimp makes a fascinating and functional addition to the aquarium, especially when housed in a symbiotic pairing with a watchman goby.

International Aquatics Quarantine & Guarantee: All fish are checked by marine vets, given a formalin bath, and held for 14 days in copper-treated systems. We feed Selcon-soaked food with Kanaplex and Metroplex during quarantine. Unless marked, all livestock comes with our 15-Day Guarantee. You will receive a video of your fish eating before shipment. On request, we also send photos/videos after arrival at IA. Some species are import-to-order (3-10 business days). Many common species are already cleared or near the end of QT.

Several species will be import-to-order and may take anywhere from 3-10 business days to secure. Once your fish is secured, you will be notified, and the quarantine process will then begin.